International World Leisure Congress in the Netherlands for the first time
The World Leisure Congress (WLO) is returning to Europe after 13 years and for the first time to the Netherlands. From all over the world, hundreds of scientists and leisure professionals will come to Breda University of Applied Sciences. Around the conference theme ‘Leisure for a Better Society’, they will exchange the latest knowledge and insights from 25 to 28 August. The Centre of Expertise Leisure, Tourism & Hospitality (CELTH) is organising an Industry Day.
The World Leisure Organisation is a global non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting the role of leisure as an integral part of social, cultural, economic and sustainable development. Since 1952, WLO has provided educational and networking opportunities for academics, professionals and citizens worldwide.
CELTH connects science and practice at Industry Day
New to the conference is the CELTH Industry Day: a day where science and practice meet under the motto: ‘From Knowledge to Experience - Building Bridges between Science and Industry’. Keynote speaker is Yvonne Nassar, the new director of NBTC. Mark Wednesday 27 August in your diary and book your ticket with advantageous Early Rate registration!
Seven creative theme labs
The practical, co-creative programme, built around seven creative themalabs, brings together academics and the sector to rethink how we innovate, collaborate and apply knowledge in leisure. Each lab focuses on a pressing challenge in leisure.
- Traditional Dutch & Heritage: Innovating the Future with a Nod to the Past
- The Role of Leisure in Urban Development: Shaping Cities Through Recreation
- Leisure & Food: The Ultimate Pairing for Memorable Experiences
- Inclusion: Leisure for Everyone, Everywhere
- Sustainability: Designing a Green Future for Leisure
- Meaningful Experiences: Crafting Moments That Matter
- Technology & Innovation in Leisure: Creating Immersive Futures
Instead of theoretical presentations, these sessions will serve as collaborative workspaces where design thinking, case-solving and creative methods lead to real results. Participants will gain new perspectives, practical strategies and build bonds that will last beyond the event.
Delving deeper into Living Labs in the city and on campus
In the afternoon, participants delve further into the Industry Day themes via Living Labs on location - both in the city and on the campus of Breda University of Applied Sciences. Here you will experience how current issues around heritage, urban development, technology and experience take shape in leisure practice. Think of inspiring places like the Blind Walls Gallery, the Grote Kerk, the Nieuwe Mark or the XR Lab.
Each Living Lab is linked to a substantive theme and shows how research, policy and practice come together in concrete projects and places.
Secure your spot at the Industry Day
So whether you work in leisure, tourism, hospitality, policy or research, register for the CELTH Industry Day. Register before 30 July with the Early Rate rate and do not miss this unique opportunity to be part of the World Leisure Congress in your own country.